Toyota has whipped the covers off a new RAV4 TRD Off-Road model at the Chicago Auto Show in the United States, giving its fresh-faced, fifth-generation SUV an updated suspension set-up, new wheels and bespoke tyres “engineered specifically for trail driving”.

The latest addition to the RAV4 family is fitted with what the Japanese brand describes as “a full array” of special Toyota Racing Development engineering and design features for “greater trail-driving capability and standout style”.

Exterior design cues include “high-rise” roof rails and large over-fenders, plus the more aggressive bumper and grille designs used by the so-called “Adventure” grade.

Toyota says the special TRD-tuned suspension has been “engineered to enhance body control and small-bump isolation” to help smooth out trails. Model-specific red coil springs, meanwhile, bear an off-road focus, while the twin-tube shocks have been re-valved and feature new internal rebound springs. In addition, new bump stops ostensibly help improve body control over large bumps and dips.

Offered in the US in Magnetic Grey metallic with an Ice Edge roof, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road features dark grey front and rear lower facias, as well as front LED foglamps. Midnight Black and Lunar Rock body colours are also available (both with the option of an Ice Edge roof), along with Ruby Flare Pearl and Super White.

The new RAV4 is scheduled to launch in South Africa in March 2019. While the local range will include a GX-R derivative (similar to the Adventure variant offered in the US), this TRD package in unlikely to feature.

Ryan has spent most of his career in online media, writing about everything from sport to politics and other forms of crime. But his true passion – reignited by a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 still tucked lifeless in a dark corner of his garage – is of the automotive variety.